Garlic Herb Protein Bagels

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy bagel that's not only bursting with savory garlic and herb flavors but also packed with muscle-building protein. These Garlic Herb Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese Spread are the answer to your breakfast dreams—a delicious twist on the classic bagel that fuels your body while satisfying your taste buds. Whether you're meal-prepping for the week or looking for a post-workout snack, these homemade bagels deliver nutrition and flavor in every bite.

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What makes these bagels special is the combination of bread flour and whey protein powder, creating a dough that's both structurally sound and nutritionally enhanced. The traditional boiling step gives these bagels their characteristic chewy exterior, while the garlic and herbs infuse every bite with savory flavor. Topped with a creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese spread brightened with fresh chives, parsley, and lemon zest, this recipe transforms a simple breakfast into a satisfying, wholesome meal.

Ingredients

• For the Bagels: 2 cups (250 g) bread flour, 1 cup (120 g) unflavored whey protein powder, 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 ½ tsp salt, 1 tbsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, basil, parsley), 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (110°F/43°C), 1 tbsp olive oil
• For Boiling: 2 quarts (2 liters) water, 1 tbsp honey or sugar, 1 tsp baking soda
• For the Cottage Cheese Spread: 1 cup (225 g) cottage cheese, 2 tbsp fresh chives (finely chopped), 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped), 1 garlic clove (minced), ½ tsp lemon zest, salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, protein powder, yeast, sugar, salt, dried herbs, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 30–40 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 6: Shape the Bagels

Punch down the dough and divide into 6 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, then poke a hole in the center of each to form bagels.

Step 7: Prepare Boiling Water

Bring 2 quarts of water to a gentle boil. Add honey (or sugar) and baking soda.

Step 8: Boil the Bagels

Boil each bagel for 45 seconds per side, then transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Cool on a rack.

Step 10: Make the Spread

For the spread: In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, chives, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 11: Serve

Slice bagels and serve with a generous layer of cottage cheese spread.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For best results, ensure your warm water is precisely 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it. When shaping the bagels, make the center holes slightly larger than you think necessary—they'll shrink during boiling and baking. The baking soda in the boiling water helps achieve that signature golden-brown crust and slightly alkaline flavor that distinguishes bagels from regular bread. If your dough feels too sticky during kneading, add flour one tablespoon at a time; if it's too dry, add water by the teaspoon. A stand mixer with a dough hook can make kneading easier, but hand-kneading gives you better control over dough texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Try adding sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top before baking for extra crunch and nutrition. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free bread flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly. You can experiment with different herb combinations—try rosemary and thyme for an earthy flavor, or add everything bagel seasoning on top. The cottage cheese spread can be blended for a smoother, cream cheese-like texture, or you can substitute Greek yogurt for a tangier profile. For a sweeter variation, reduce the garlic and herbs and add cinnamon and raisins to the dough.

Serviervorschläge

These protein bagels shine at breakfast paired with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit, or as a satisfying post-workout snack. The cottage cheese spread is delicious on its own, but you can also add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or smoked salmon for a more substantial meal. Pair with a crisp, dry white wine for brunch or a light breakfast tea for a morning treat. Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. The cottage cheese spread keeps refrigerated for up to 5 days.

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These Garlic Herb Protein Bagels prove that healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. With 19 grams of protein per serving and the satisfying chew of an authentic bagel, they're a game-changer for anyone seeking nutritious, delicious homemade bread. The creamy cottage cheese spread, bright with fresh herbs and lemon, elevates each bite into something truly special. Make a batch this weekend and discover how easy it is to enjoy bakery-quality bagels right from your own kitchen.

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Kitchen Q&A

→ What gives these bagels their soft, chewy texture?

The combination of bread flour and whey protein powder, along with boiling the bagels briefly before baking, creates the classic chewy texture and soft interior.

→ Can I add seeds for extra crunch?

Yes, sprinkling sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top before baking adds a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor.

→ How does boiling with honey and baking soda affect the bagels?

Boiling in water with honey and baking soda helps set the crust, creating a shiny surface while enhancing the chewiness and color of the bagels.

→ What herbs are used in the bagels?

A dried herb mix of oregano, basil, and parsley is combined with garlic powder to infuse the dough with aromatic flavors.

→ How is the cottage cheese spread prepared?

The spread mixes cottage cheese with finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper for a creamy, flavorful topping.

→ Can these bagels be made gluten-free?

Yes, using a gluten-free bread flour blend can adapt the dough while maintaining a similar texture and flavor.